More than 200 fewer people are now claiming job seekers allowance in Bolton than a year ago, according to the latest figures.

But the number of younger people between the ages of 18 and 24 has risen over the same period, according to the Department for Work and Pensions.

Jobcentre partnership manager Jenny Stanton said there are several initiatives underway in the Bolton area to help people into work.

She said: “We have seen a slight increase in the claimant count for young people, however, good news that on the whole the total claimant count for Bolton has reduced by nine per cent.

“Lots going on the Bolton Employment Advisers are working hard and have been proud to continuously support the recruitment needs of a large manufacturer in the area, Park Cakes. 

The Bolton News: The figures were released by the Department for Work and PensionsThe figures were released by the Department for Work and Pensions (Image: PA)

“The Job Centre has just run its sixth Sector Based Work Academy Programme with the employer. 

“This is a supported routeway into work that gives customers the chance to attend an Open Day, take part in a bespoke training programme and work experience, then have a guaranteed job interview. 

“This programme has to-date resulted in an amazing 46 job offers!”

The figures from the DWP show that as of September this year a total of 9,270 people were claiming in Bolton, down by 235 people compared to the year before.

A total of 1,790 people between the ages of 18 and 24 people were claiming, up by 75 compared to last year.

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But older people fared better with 2070 currently claiming in September this year, down by 195 compared to the year before.

This was broadly in line with national trends that have seen more people go into work.

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Mel Stride MP said: “There are more than one million more people on company payrolls compared to 2019, a near record high, and today’s statistics also show inactivity has fallen by over a quarter of a million since the pandemic peak.

“Growing the economy is our priority.

“That’s why we are bearing down on inflation and bringing in the next generation of welfare reforms to drive down inactivity and help more people into work.”